APPAREIL (7) is the one to beat after a much better seventh at Kyoto Dirt, where she led and was only run down late, beaten just under four lengths while respected near the top of an open market. Third-up fitness gives her a stronger platform than most. MADDUX (9) resumes from a G2 New Zealand Trophy (NHK Mile Cup Trial) run that was too strong, but his four-length Mdn win at Nakayama Dirt beforehand reads well for this level and he is already a winner at 1200m. MELLIFLUOUS (12) has the most reliable distance profile, with one win and four placings from seven starts at around 1200m, and her first-up seventh was sound enough to build from with weight relief. SISTER (8) was unwanted when sixth first-up at Nakayama Dirt, but she has placed twice from three attempts at this track and distance and can improve into a minor role.